Well thanks Rob, and although I've probably had a bottle of just about every bourbon out there, I would defintely not qualify myself as an expert by any means. I do not what I like though. Given the choice between those two, I'd probably go for the Noah's Mill 8 times out of 10. Since both are fairly high proof, I would not characterize them as smooth before I'd characterize them as flavorful, but then again, neither are harsh. Booker's has a very deep, smoky, rich flavor that I have heard characterized as "bacon fat." Although my palate is not nearly as sophisticated enough to render this opinion itself, I'd have to say that feels about right. Noah's Mill on ther other hand, is lighter, with more subtle flavors like maple sugar and believe it or not, peanuts. Yes, peanuts.

That said, if you're not sure; before you pony up for a bottle, find a good bar tended by a fine looking tattooed girl and try each by the glass. First sip neat, then add water to taste.

Rob, which Taylor did you have?
This. That said, I'd extend that to the 20 as well. I have about 5 bottles of the 20 YO sitting in my liquor cabinet (I live in the south, and like any good southerner, I always know how to find the best whiskey) right now. A month ago I had 6, but I traded one for a bottle of the 15 yo. True story. Like I said, I know what I like.

The EH I have is the SIngle Barrel. I like it a lot.

I have an opportunity to get my hands on a bottle of Mortlach Flora & Fauna for $140...too much, or is it worth it? I generally like Speysides and know this is hard to come by...what do you guys think?

I have an opportunity to get my hands on a bottle of Mortlach Flora & Fauna for $140...too much, or is it worth it? I generally like Speysides and know this is hard to come by...what do you guys think?

Glenlivet, even the 18, is a pretty standard starter Scotch for me. Try any of the Balvenies, they're a favorite of my wife and I. We're fans of Laphroaig but based on Lags spot on your not like list, I'd avoid that. Stay Speyside for the sweeter stuff.Edited by NewYorkIslander - 5/8/13 at 10:28am

It sounds like you like the sweeter side of scotch. Try the Glendronach 15 year revival, it's not as common as the other suggestions, but its really a great speyside that works fantastic in spring/summer.

So I need a recommendation. Just reached a major life milestone in finishing grad school and was looking to get a really nice scotch to commemorate the achievement. I was originally thinking something like Johnnie Blue but the consensus seems to be that it's overrated for the price. So I'm looking for something in that price range. I'm generally a fan of sweeter whiskeys, I really like the Macallan 12 because of all the sherry notes it has. Also a fan of Oban.